Home / Environment / Mistake Drains Wildlife Pond, Years to Recover
Mistake Drains Wildlife Pond, Years to Recover
20 Mar
Summary
- Wildlife pond near River Meden was mistakenly drained during infrastructure work.
- Campaigner warns of years for habitat and wildlife recovery.
- Council cites accidental drain during sluice gate maintenance.
A crucial wildlife pond located on the Nottinghamshire-Derbyshire border has been mistakenly drained, raising alarms among local conservationists. The incident occurred near the River Meden at Pleasley Vale as Bolsover District Council undertook an £850,000 project to upgrade water infrastructure and mitigate flood risks.
Cheryl Martins, a representative from Mansfield Wildlife Rescue, described the scene as distressing, with the pond completely emptied and its island habitat destroyed. She expressed grave concerns for the immediate impact on various species, including swans, toads, and kingfishers, predicting a lost breeding season and long-term ecological damage.
The council has classified the pond's drainage as an accidental occurrence during essential maintenance on sluice gates. They stated that a fish recovery operation was conducted, and brown trout were relocated. While acknowledging the unfortunate timing, the council also noted that a habitat assessment had indicated potential for long-term biodiversity improvement once the project is complete.
